Guest Post: Should you purchase an RV?

Authors note: Today's guest post is written by Hannah Eneix of Kirklands RV Sales.


To begin, an RV is any enclosed vehicle used for camping that is more extensive than a truck or regular car. There are three types of RV’s: towable, truck camper, and motorized motor home. Sixty-six percent of regular campers still use tents, but the number of people using RVs is continually growing. In 2011, 8.9 million households in the US owned and used RV’s, and, currently, an average of 2,000 RVs are being sold yearly. Many people decide to buy an RV because it is more convenient to use than a tent. Here are some of those conveniences.
  • You can haul more equipment.
  • There is less setup for camp. 
  • Comfortable living quarters
  • A close bathroom.
  • More storage options.

However, even though some things are more convenient when camping with an RV, there are still some downsides as well..
  • It costs more to use an RV.
  • RVs do not get good gas mileage, so be ready to stop for gas more.
  • RVs could require significant upkeep. 

If you do decide to purchase an RV, there are some things you should consider. 

First of all, you should decide on how big of an RV you want, how much you want to spend on it, and what options you want it to have. Some things you should decide on are: the floorplan, storage options, fuel economy, sleeping space, and cooking options (microwave, stove, ecc..). Once you have decided on all these factors, you are ready to begin looking for an RV that you would like to purchase.

Once you have found the RV you would like to purchase, rent it! Take some time to go on a camping trip and experience it first hand. Then you will find out if you like living in it, enjoy how it drives, and like working on it. This way, you will know if you are making the right choice.

After you have done all of this research, conducted your test/ trial camping trip, and had your technician take a look at the RV, you are officially ready to make your purchase.

Also, when you do buy your future RV, don’t be shy about asking for a price that fits your budget.. RV’s do not have a firm asking price, so you may be able to save money by just inquiring.

Post Purchase

After you have purchased your RV and are getting ready to take off, make sure and use these pre-trip inspection tips to keep trips as safe as possible.

Check your tires and inflate them before every trip.
One of the problems that will most likely happen on your trip is that one of your tires will blowout. Make sure to avoid that by taking care of your tires before every trip.

Balance the load in your RV.
An unbalanced RV can cause breakdowns, restrict driving and steering, and cause blowouts. Be sure to balance the load in your RV.

Measure the height of your RV.
Knowing the height of your RV will ensure that there are no uncertainties when going under overpasses or bridges, and you can avoid damage to your RV.

Let other people drive. 
If you are taking a long road trip, share the driving! Falling asleep at the wheel is dangerous and can be solved easily by letting someone else drive while you take a nap and get refreshed.



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